Top-freezer refrigerators generally use less energy than bottom-freezer models, according to ENERGY STAR. That is a category-level tendency, not a guarantee about every pair of refrigerators. To compare specific models, look at their annual energy use in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and make sure their capacities and features are reasonably similar.
Why freezer position can matter
ENERGY STAR says that “Models with the freezer on top tend to use the least energy (versus bottom freezers or side-by-sides).” This is useful when narrowing a search, but it does not establish that every top-freezer refrigerator will use less electricity than every bottom-freezer refrigerator. Individual models differ in size and design.
Federal efficiency criteria account for factors including configuration, capacity, defrost type, and ice-maker functionality. Those differences matter when comparing the energy figures for two products; freezer position alone does not make them an apples-to-apples comparison. ENERGY STAR outlines these distinctions in its refrigerator and freezer criteria.
How to compare two refrigerator models
- Find each model’s annual energy use. Check the product’s EnergyGuide label or its entry in the ENERGY STAR certified refrigerator listings. The figure is stated in kWh per year and offers a direct way to compare expected electricity consumption under standardized conditions.
- Match capacity as closely as possible. Compare refrigerators with similar cubic-foot capacity. Larger refrigerators generally use more energy, so a bigger model’s higher kWh figure may reflect its size rather than its freezer location. ENERGY STAR says the most energy-efficient models are typically 16–20 cubic feet and recommends choosing an appropriately sized refrigerator.
- Check features that affect the comparison. Note the defrost type and whether the refrigerator has an automatic or through-the-door ice maker. These are among the characteristics reflected in federal efficiency categories.
- Compare the annual kWh figures. For the models you are considering, the one with the lower annual kWh figure is expected to use less electricity under standardized conditions. Certification or freezer placement should not substitute for checking the individual model data.
Estimate the electricity cost for your home
Multiply a refrigerator’s annual kWh figure by your electricity price per kWh to estimate its annual energy cost. For example, if a model is listed at 500 kWh per year and your rate is $0.20 per kWh, the calculation is 500 × $0.20 = $100 per year. Use your own rate and the actual kWh figure for each model; there is no universal dollar saving attributable to top-freezer placement.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- SPACIOUS STORAGE: With a generous 7.5 cu. ft. capacity, this platinum refrigerator ensures you have ample space for all your essentials, making it easy to keep everything at your fingertips.
- ORGANIZED CONVENIENCE: Equipped with removable glass shelves, a transparent crisper, and a full-width door bin, this small upright fridge offers organized and convenient storage for all your food and beverage items.
- DEDICATED FREEZER: Enjoy the convenience of a separate freezer compartment with ample space for your frozen goods, along with an adjustable thermostat and interior lighting for both compartments.
- SLEEK DESIGN: Featuring a sleek and durable platinum design with chrome trim and handles, this small fridge freezer adds an upscale retro look that will elevate your space.
- FLEXIBLE CONFIGURATION: The adjustable/removable shelves offer flexibility to customize the interior layout according to your needs, accommodating items of various sizes with ease. A reversible door also allows for flexible opening to best suit your space
What model listings can—and cannot—tell you
ENERGY STAR’s product results list certified refrigerators with their configurations, capacities, and annual energy use. The records can help you compare actual candidates, but a list of products is not a controlled comparison. For instance, the results include 18.2-cubic-foot bottom-freezer examples listed at 456 kWh/year and 553 kWh/year. Those figures illustrate that energy use varies among models; they do not isolate the effect of freezer position or establish a typical top-versus-bottom difference.
Product records and availability can change. Confirm the current listing and the exact model number before making a purchase decision. ENERGY STAR certification is a useful way to identify qualifying products, but it does not mean every certified top-freezer model beats every certified bottom-freezer model.
Quick Recap
Rank #2
- Spacious Yet Compact: This 30-inch, white refrigerator offers 18.1 cu. ft. of standard-depth storage space, giving you plenty of room for groceries without crowding your garage or smaller kitchens
- Adjustable Edge-to-Edge Glass Shelves: Edge-to-edge tempered glass shelves adjust to fit party trays, drink pitchers, or sheet cakes. Customize your refrigerator layout with flexible storage for tall, wide or oversized items
- Gallon Door Storage + Freezer Bins: 4 clear refrigerator door bins and 1 gallon-sized door bin holds gallon jugs, condiments, and more. 2 full-width freezer door bins keep smaller frozen items organized and easy to reach
- Humidity-Controlled Crispers & Inverter Compressor: Store produce in 2 clear humidity-controlled crispers to help it stay fresher longer. The inverter compressor quietly and efficiently maintains a consistent temperature to keep food fresh
- ENERGY STAR Certified: Long-lasting LED lighting brightens the interior. ENERGY STAR certified to help save on utilities
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